hp-align

hp-align [-h | --help] [-d | --device=DEVICE_URI] [-P | --printer=PRINTER] [-g | --gui] [-m | --memory] [-D | --debug[=LEVEL]] [-v | --version] [-s | --symlink] [-l | --list] [-r | --recommended] [-p | --ppd=PPD_FILE] [-b | --batch]

-h, --help
    Show help message and exit.


-d, --device=DEVICE_URI
    Specify device URI (e.g., hp:/usb/HP_LaserJet_... or hp:/net/OfficeJet_...).


-P, --printer=PRINTER
    Specify CUPS printer name.


-g, --gui
    Launch graphical alignment dialog (requires Qt).


-m, --memory
    Store alignment in printer memory (default: NVRAM).


-D, --debug[=LEVEL]
    Set debug logging level (0-9; default 4).


-v, --version
    Print HPLIP version info and exit.


-s, --symlink
    Symlink HPLIP plugin path (rarely used).


-l, --list
    List available HPLIP-supported devices.


-r, --recommended
    Use recommended alignment pattern.


-p, --ppd=PPD_FILE
    Specify PPD file for non-HP frontends.


-b, --batch
    Batch mode: no user interaction (advanced).

The hp-align command is a utility from the HPLIP (HP Linux Imaging and Printing) package designed to align printheads on supported HP inkjet printers. Printhead alignment corrects positional offsets between color and black printheads, ensuring sharp text, vibrant colors, and streak-free prints.

Typically run after installing new printheads, refilling cartridges, or when print quality degrades (e.g., blurry text, color bleeding). The process prints a alignment pattern page; users scan it using the printer's flatbed scanner or enter values manually for non-scanner models.

In console mode, it prompts for user input on pattern deviations. GUI mode (-g) provides an intuitive interface. It supports USB, network, and CUPS printers via device URI or printer name. Alignment data is stored in printer memory or NVRAM.

Requires HPLIP installed, printer powered on, and sufficient ink levels. Run as root or with sudo for device access. Improves print quality significantly on models like Deskjet, Officejet, and Photosmart series.

Requires sudo/root for device access; ensure printer has ink and is idle. Not all HP models support alignment. GUI needs hplip-gui package. Scanner required for automatic alignment on all-in-ones.

hp-align -d hp:/usb/HP_Deskjet_2130 (console align via USB).
hp-align -P HP-Deskjet-2130 -g (GUI via CUPS printer).

After printing pattern, scan or input column numbers for best alignment.

If fails: run hp-check -t for HPLIP status. Update firmware with hp-firmware. Check /var/log/hp-check.log for errors.

Developed by HP as part of HPLIP (first released 2005). Evolved with printer models; current in HPLIP 3.24.x (2024). Initially console-only; GUI added in HPLIP 1.7+.

hp-testpage(1), hp-print(1), hp-setup(1), hp-check(1), hp-toolbox(1)